A determinedly eccentric old guy's journey while living a bicycle lifestyle.

Thursday, August 22, 2013

Racks and Hard Places; The Archer Road Tour, Butler Plaza Part 2

Butler
Plaza is a focal point for activity in Gainesville whether you're
driving, riding or on foot. For riders security accomodations are less
than ideal, but the recent remodeling and upgrading of a portion of
Butler has changed that significantly.

The Esplanade at Butler
Plaza has actually recognized bicycle riders as
potential customers with highly visible U racks spaced regularly along
the remodeled store fronts. There are even some suitable flyparking
options associated with handicapped access points where bikes could be
secured without being obstacles.

McAlisters Deli

Miya Sushi

Flyparking near Ada's,
Falafel King
and Cici's

I'm
sure Publix
has good reason for keeping a second store in operation in
very close proximity to the one which replaced Albertson's on the west
end of Butler Plaza. It was once rumored that it was to become one of
their special products stores specializing in natural foods.
Nonetheless, special store or not, it's more convenient to local mass
transit stops as routes 1, 12, 62 and 75 all stop nearby. Common to
Publix are bike racks at both entrances. Unlike those at the former
Albertson's these are U racks set in concrete. Both are
readily visible with the one outside the east entrance being visible to
the ATM security camera, a coincidental and fortunate arrangement.

Publix, west entrance

Publix, east entrance

Crossing SW 35th Blvd which separates Butler Plaza East from The
Esplanade brings you to the area dominated by Walmart. Here, also,
is
the Tax Collector's
office and Tag Agency,
Firehouse Subs,
Bonefish
Grill and other business on the west side of Walmart. On
the east side
of Walmart are Payless,
Outback, the
GameStop and
additional
businesses. All of this vast area is served by two bicycle racks. One
is located well away and not visible from the main entrance to Walmart.

Walmart

GameStop

Outside
GameStop is the second rack. Both are inadequate and only the one at
GameStop is readily visible and then only from that establishment.

Should better security accomodations be expected at Butler Plaza?
Subjectively, yes. Objectively, yes. The changes made to The Esplanade
section of Butler demonstrates the viability of peaceful coexistence.